Do it! The nations joint problem Heres why we need to make arthritis a national issue A rthritis is one of the biggest public health issues facing the UK. Despite this, it is often seen as an inevitable or even an acceptable part of getting older, which simply isnt true. This viewpoint completely underestimates the condition, and means that people with arthritis do not get the help and support they need. Around 77 per cent of those with arthritis say that other people dont understand the conditions impact because they dont look seriously affected, and only 42 per cent of people see arthritis as a major public health issue. To combat this, Arthritis Research UK launched its Arthritis: The Nations Joint Problem campaign in August, which was developed with the help of those living with arthritis. Its aim is to reveal the true impact arthritis has on more than 10 million people in the UK who are living with the condition, as well as the indirect impact it has on people around them, including family, friends and colleagues. Working it out The aim is that as more people start to recognise arthritis as being a major public health issue, our country will become better adapted to meeting the needs of those living with the condition including having greater empathy, improved services and treatments, and better workplace adjustments. The campaign has been featured across national media, with coverage in The Times, and on Sky News, BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Twos Victoria Derbyshire programme. People across the country have been sharing their experiences of what it is like to live with arthritis, and Arthritis Research UK is now calling for the condition to be viewed as a public health priority. You may also have seen Arthritis Research UKs TV advert, at home or in cinemas, which highlights the impact of arthritis on To find the workplace. In addition to this, Arthritis Research UK has out more, visit produced a film where people talk about the reality of living arthritisresearchuk. with an invisible condition thats not widely understood. org/jointproblem. The Guardian has also published a series of articles on the If youd like to help raise impact of arthritis in relation to family, friendships, work and awareness, please share mental health, including a short documentary. the campaign content By starting a nationwide conversation, arthritis has a much on social media greater chance of getting the recognition and the resources it truly deserves.